MIL OSI – Source: Waikato District Health Board – Press Release/Statement
Headline: Waikato DHB Mental Health and Addiction Services group manager resigns
Jeff Bennett
Waikato District Health Board chief executive Dr Nigel Murray has regretfully accepted the resignation of longstanding Mental Health and Addiction Services group manager Jeff Bennett.
“I want to personally thank Jeff for the 13 years he has contributed to this organisation,” said Dr Murray.
“Jeff’s contribution and loyal service to the DHB has been huge, in particular his involvement in leading our mental health services through significant reform and change.”
Jeff originally accepted the role as Executive Director of Mental Health and Addiction Services under the new restructure. However on reflection he felt it was a time for new changes both for him and the organisation.
“After nearly 13 years (7 years in this current role) with one organisation I feel it is time for fresh challenges.”
Jeff started at the DHB in 2003 as a manager of Te Puna Oranga, where he worked for just under a year before accepting the role as Older Persons and Rehabilitation group manager.
Mr Bennett reflected on his first day at Waikato Hospital, which coincidently was the same day his daughter was born here and went on to say,
“I am very proud to have not only been part of, but to have led the mental health team alongside the clinical services director Dr Rees Tapsell”.
“I want to thank Rees and the leadership team, along with all the dedicated and talented staff in mental health and addictions services for what we have achieved and the changes we have made. I know they will continue to deliver excellent care to our service users and are well positioned to continue to build on the improvements we have already made,” said Mr Bennett.
During the period of Jeff’s notice, he and Rees will continue to provide leadership for Mental Health and Addiction Services until new arrangements are in place.
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